Core Viewpoint - The rise and fall of the ASUS Eee PC, which pioneered the netbook category, illustrates the rapid evolution of consumer electronics and the impact of market dynamics on product lifecycle [1][13][43] Group 1: Product Launch and Market Impact - ASUS became the world's second-largest OEM in 2006, primarily manufacturing computers and servers for Dell and HP [1] - The launch of the ASUS Eee PC in 2007 marked the beginning of the netbook revolution, achieving nearly 40 million units sold at its peak [1][9] - The Eee PC was priced at $299, significantly lower than traditional laptops, which contributed to its rapid adoption [4][9] Group 2: Market Dynamics and Consumer Behavior - The global financial crisis in 2007 amplified the appeal of low-cost netbooks as consumers sought affordable alternatives to traditional laptops [7][9] - The entry of various manufacturers, including Acer and numerous low-cost producers in Shenzhen, further drove down prices and expanded the netbook market [6][9] - Netbooks found a niche in the education sector, particularly in developing countries, where they were seen as a cost-effective solution for providing students with computers [9][12] Group 3: Decline and Technological Evolution - Despite initial success, netbook sales began to decline sharply after 2010, with sales dropping from 39.4 million units in 2010 to just 1.4 million by 2013 [10][13] - The emergence of tablets and smartphones, which offered better performance and portability, contributed to the decline of netbooks [30][36] - The rapid advancement of technology, as described by Moore's Law, led to increased performance in traditional laptops, making them more competitive against netbooks [26][29] Group 4: Legacy and Industry Influence - The netbook phenomenon highlighted consumer demand for lightweight, affordable computing solutions, influencing the design and marketing of future products like ultrabooks and Chromebooks [42][43] - Although netbooks were short-lived, their impact on the industry was significant, prompting manufacturers to explore new market segments and innovate in product design [42][43]